Parker Sonnet Fountain Pen Nib Size Comparison

Since its introduction in 1993, the Parker Sonnet has proved to be one of Parker's most popular ranges as a successor to the Parker 75.

The Pen was originally offered with four nib widths - Fine, Medium, Broad and Extra Fine - but Parker has now expanded the range to offer eight different sizes and styles (in chrome, gold-plated and solid 18ct gold options) which are as follows:

The most popular nib, and ideal if you're unsure about the recipient's preference if buying as a gift. The Sonnet Medium is a little on the fine side, especially compared to the Jotter and Duofold nibs.

One for an avid enthusiast or seasoned professional. Italic nibs are cut to leave the tip wider across the end, enabling more line variety. The Parker Sonnet Medium Italic nib is a 'cursive' italic, which is smoother and easier to control than 'stub end' italics. 'Stub' nibs produce much more intense line variations.

Different naming conventions by different manufacturers can result in a lot of confusion with oblique nibs. They're more chisel-like in appearance, and suited to writers who hold a fountain pen somewhat rotated in the hand. They can be ground in either direction, which leads us on to...

As a general rule of thumb, the Medium Reverse Oblique nib is the most suitable Sonnet nib for left-handers. However, given how many ways in which left-handed users hold and write with a fountain pen, it may take some experimentation to find the correct oblique nib.

How do all the different nib sizes compare across the different brands? Is a Parker Medium nib the same as a Lamy medium? Our visual blog post reveals all.